Alpine Linux3.24.2
Small, simple, security-minded, and container-friendly.
What is Alpine Linux?
Alpine Linux is an independent distribution built on musl libc and BusyBox. Its tiny base image makes it a favorite for containers, routers, and small servers. It can run a full desktop, but the musl C library means some prebuilt binaries made for glibc systems will not run without extra work.
Who is Alpine Linux for?
Alpine Linux fits best for servers and development. Where it ranks in our lists:
- #4 of 12: Linux distros without systemd
- #4 of 7: Linux distros that still support 32-bit PCs
- #7 of 13: best Linux distros for servers
- #17 of 29: best Linux distros for programming and development
Pros
- Very small base image
- Fast package manager
- Security-minded defaults
Cons
- musl can break software built for glibc
- Desktop use needs manual setup
Alpine Linux system requirements
For a comfortable desktop with a modern web browser, plan for about 1 GB of RAM, and less is workable with a light desktop. Alpine Linux is available for x86_64, aarch64, i686, including 32-bit PCs. Leave at least 25 GB of storage for the system and applications. These figures are editorial guidance; check the official documentation for minimums.
Alpine Linux versions and support dates
| Version | Released | Latest | Support ends | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Linux 3.24 | Jun 9, 2026 | 3.24.2 | Jun 1, 2028 | Supported |
| Alpine Linux 3.23 | Dec 4, 2025 | 3.23.6 | Nov 1, 2027 | Supported |
| Alpine Linux 3.22 | May 30, 2025 | 3.22.6 | May 1, 2027 | Supported |
| Alpine Linux 3.21 | Dec 5, 2024 | 3.21.8 | Nov 1, 2026 | Ending within 6 months |
| Alpine Linux 3.20 | May 22, 2024 | 3.20.10 | Apr 1, 2026 | Ended |
| Alpine Linux 3.19 | Dec 7, 2023 | 3.19.9 | Nov 1, 2025 | Ended |
| Alpine Linux 3.18 | May 9, 2023 | 3.18.12 | May 9, 2025 | Ended |
| Alpine Linux 3.17 | Nov 22, 2022 | 3.17.10 | Nov 22, 2024 | Ended |
See all 20 Alpine Linux versions
Source: endoflife.date. Support scope varies by product; confirm on the project’s site.
Try Alpine Linux before you install
Write the image to a USB stick and boot it as a live session to test Wi-Fi, graphics, sound, and suspend on your own computer. A browser trial on DistroSea shows the desktop, but cannot verify your hardware.
Compare Alpine Linux with…
Best Alpine Linux alternatives
Alpine Linux: common questions
What is Alpine Linux based on?
Alpine Linux is an independent distribution; it is not derived from another Linux distribution. It uses apk for software and OpenRC as its init system.
What is the latest version of Alpine Linux?
The latest Alpine Linux release is 3.24.2, released Sep 17, 2026, according to endoflife.date.
How long is Alpine Linux 3.24 supported?
Alpine Linux 3.24 is listed as supported until Jun 1, 2028.
Is Alpine Linux good for beginners?
Not usually. Alpine Linux expects hands-on configuration and maintenance. Beginners are better served by Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or Zorin OS.
How much RAM does Alpine Linux need?
We suggest about 1 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop experience with a modern browser. This is editorial guidance, not the project’s official minimum, which can be lower. It runs on x86_64, aarch64, i686.
What desktop does Alpine Linux use?
Alpine Linux offers None by default (Xfce, GNOME, KDE available).
Is Alpine Linux a rolling release?
No. Alpine Linux uses fixed releases; you upgrade to a new version periodically.
Is Alpine Linux free?
Yes, Alpine Linux is free to download and use.